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Daniel Farke fully expects to be leading Leeds United from the dugout when the Premier League season kicks off in August—and he’s also anticipating strong backing in the transfer market.
Recent speculation has surrounded Farke’s future, with reports suggesting that the club’s 49ers ownership group might consider a managerial change despite securing promotion.
But Farke isn’t fazed. Instead, his focus is on capturing a third league title, having already won two with Norwich City.
Farke Ready for Premier League Challenge—Takes Swipe at Rivals
Concerns about Farke’s top-flight credentials stem from his previous stint with Norwich, where his side finished bottom of the Premier League in both post-promotion seasons.
He was ultimately dismissed early in his second top-flight campaign in 2021/22.
However, Farke pointed out that those challenges were largely due to a lack of investment.
Norwich only spent around £7.5 million in his first Premier League season—leaving the squad ill-equipped to compete.
Reflecting on that time, Farke defended his record and aimed a cheeky dig at some of Leeds’ current promotion rivals: Ipswich, Leicester, and Southampton.
“It wasn’t a case of lessons learned at Norwich—it was simply what we expected,” he explained.
“We were promoted with young players from lower leagues, and we didn’t invest.
We had talks about strengthening the defense, but the decision was to prioritize paying back loans, developing the academy, improving infrastructure, and renewing contracts. We needed a miracle to survive.”
He continued: “I had serious offers from the Premier League and Bundesliga, but Norwich wanted me to stay. They said if anyone could pull off a miracle, it was probably me.
I knew it wouldn’t work, but I felt a responsibility to the club.”
Farke noted that Norwich had 23 points after 29 games—more than the current bottom three sides have managed this season—despite spending just €8 million.
Lessons from Germany: Farke on Managing at the Top Level
Farke is also drawing from his experience with Borussia Monchengladbach, where he led the club to a 10th-place Bundesliga finish.
Interestingly, Gladbach dropped to 14th with nine fewer points after parting ways with him.
“What I learned at Gladbach is what it really takes to finish mid-table in a top division,” he said. “Managing top-tier talent—players who’ve played in World Cup finals, like Marcus Thuram—was part of that experience.
I developed close relationships with players like that, even from my time at Dortmund.”
More Than Just a Promotion Coach
While Farke’s past in the Premier League has its critics, his record stands up favorably compared to the current relegation strugglers.
Despite limited resources, he put up a stronger fight at Norwich than the likes of Sheffield United, Burnley, or Luton have this season.
With the right support and investment, Farke may yet prove he’s the right man to lead Leeds into the Premier League—and keep them there.
